MLK Weekend in Steamboat offers an opportunity to pause, reflect, and honor the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. While many of us gather on the mountain to enjoy winter and community, this weekend also invites us to engage more thoughtfully through conversation, storytelling, art, film, and shared experiences that celebrate unity, equity, and belonging.
From cultural events and panel discussions to opportunities to support meaningful organizations and connect with one another, Steamboat’s MLK Weekend programming blends reflection with community in a way that feels authentic to this place. Whether you participate in one event or many, it’s a chance to acknowledge the impact of Dr. King’s work while coming together as a town to listen, learn, and celebrate what brings us forward together.
MLK Weekend in the Boat Jan 15-19, 2026
The official MLK Weekend in the Boat celebration runs Thursday, January 15 through Monday, January 19, 2026, with community-oriented events in and around Steamboat Springs. Many activities are free or low cost, and Steamboat Ski Resort partners with local organizations and artists to bring them to life.
Highlights Include:
Open Skiing + “Unlock Your Pass” Opportunity
Steamboat Resort offers a unique way to join the fun on the slopes: Ikon Base Pass and Ikon Session Pass holders can unlock blocked days on January 17–18 by donating $100 per day to the National Brotherhood of Skiers (NBS). The daily donation acts as the ticket unlock and supports a great cause. Bring your NBS receipt to the Steamboat Ticket Office to participate.
Thursday, January 15
- Civil Rights Trivia: Head to Mountain Tap Brewery for a trivia night celebrating the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and enjoy the launch of the Soulful Summit Session IPA.
Friday, January 16
- Steamboat Creates Dinner & Art Talk: An evening at the Depot Art Center featuring a soul-food inspired dinner curated by James Beard Award-winning culinary historian Adrian Miller alongside art and conversation celebrating history, culture, and community.
Saturday, January 17
- Shift Tha Culture Screening: Wildhorse Cinema screens a short film that follows pro snowboarder Zeb Powell on a deeply personal journey exploring identity and culture in snow sports, including a Q&A with the filmmaker.
- Autograph Event: Meet James Beard-winning author Adrian Miller and get books signed at Off The Beaten Path.
Sunday, January 18
- Ski with a Meteorologist: A guided ski tour led by Weather Channel meteorologist Paul Goodloe (time and meeting location announced locally).
Monday, January 19 Martin Luther King Jr. Day
- STAND Panel Discussion: Join a community conversation at Bud Werner Library Hall exploring Black immigrant experiences in Routt County and celebrating MLK Day. Everyone is welcome.
Beyond the Resort – Other MLK Weekend Activities
While MLK Weekend in the Boat centers around community and cultural events, many visitors also build their plans around:
- Skiing & Riding – With variable terrain and reliable powder conditions this time of year, it remains a highlight of the weekend.
- Night Skiing – Offered on select days at Steamboat Resort and included with daily lift tickets.
- Culture & Community Events – Local libraries, galleries, and community organizations often host talks, panel discussions, and film showings around MLK Weekend.
Why MLK Weekend Is Special in Steamboat
MLK Weekend is more than just a long weekend on the calendar, it’s a blend of:
- Community engagement
- Cultural celebration
- Outdoor adventure
- Powder skiing and mountain lifestyle
Whether you’re exploring events like trivia night and film screenings or enjoying fresh snow and late-January conditions on the slopes, there’s something for both locals and visitors to enjoy.
Tips for Planning Your Weekend
- Check event times & reservations ahead of time, some dinners and screenings may require tickets or RSVPs.
- Consider donating to the National Brotherhood of Skiers to unlock Ikon Pass days on Jan. 17–18.
- Dress in layers and be ready for winter mountain conditions, January in the Yampa Valley delivers both sunshine and snow.
- Explore beyond the ski hill – partner events like art talks, author dinners, and community panels make this weekend uniquely Steamboat.
